Produced and Personal with IJ Garcia

Before technology transformed the music industry, songs were created through the combined effort of multiple musicians. From strings and woodwinds to brass and even the human voice, music was once a full symphony of individuals working together to produce dynamic sound.

Today, making music looks very different. You no longer need ten pairs of hands to play ten different instruments. In fact, one person can now create an entire orchestra on their own.

One of those people is IJ Garcia, one of loudBox Studios’ long-standing members of the music team. He has composed several award-winning songs in the advertising industry and is a prime example of how modern tools empower a single creator to bring over 100 instruments to life using just one device—his MIDI keyboard.

With software such as Logic Pro X, IJ’s piano transforms into a full library of instruments. With a simple connection to his computer and a toggle of a button, IJ can create an entire album—or a smash-hit commercial track.

Crafting Music: Hardware Meets Software

IJ has been making music for over 20 years. For him, two elements shape every composition: hardware and software.

For hardware, IJ uses:

• A 61-key MIDI keyboard

• A condenser microphone

But hardware alone is not enough. As IJ explains:

“There’s only one software that I use when it comes to recording—Logic Pro X. Been using Logic for almost 20 years.”

Within Logic Pro X lies a rich library of tools and extensions that elevate his work. Some of IJ’s favorites include:

• Omnisphere 2

• Kontakt

• Keyscape

• Avenger

• Serum

These instruments shape the sound of many of his most recognizable projects.

Award-Winning Work and Favorite Projects

Most, if not all, of IJ’s music projects have been recognized by the advertising industry. Among his favorite works at loudBox are:

• Bear Brand’s “Laki Sa Tibay”

• San Miguel Beer’s “Samaritan”

• Freestyle’s first single, “Maybe”

Each project showcases IJ’s ability to blend technical skill, musicality, and storytelling into a cohesive sonic experience.

The Evolution of Music Through Technology

Technology has undeniably driven the music industry’s evolution. As IJ puts it:

“No excuse not to learn nowadays. Everything is on YouTube and the internet.”

For anyone passionate about music, the world is now filled with limitless resources—videos, tutorials, samples, and tools that can be accessed anytime. But while technology provides the platform, IJ emphasizes that practice remains essential.

His advice:

“Practice learning how to play the keyboard/piano well. Knowing how to play the keys is a big advantage.”

The IJ Garcia we know today became the talented and prodigious musician he is because of two things: his passion and his skill—sharpened through years of dedication, curiosity, and hands-on work with the tools he loves.